WHAT WAS YOUR PATH INTO LAW AND ONTO THE BENCH?

My path to the law and the bench was not very direct, but it was entertaining, scenic, and full of fun and adventure. I never had a goal to go to law school, to be any specific type of lawyer, or to become a judge. Instead, as opportunities presented themselves, I was guided by what I thought would be interesting and meaningful at that time. I believe that approach led me to where I am today.

After I obtained my undergraduate degree, I travelled and then worked for the Government of Alberta in public policy, including constitutional policy. I thought my career was headed in a certain direction, but when the opportunity I had been pursuing for several years crystallized, I ultimately changed my mind. At that point, I was not sure what to do. Eventually, I thought I would try law school, as it seemed like a “practical” choice.

I had no idea what law school would entail. It turned out to be one of the most intellectually invigorating experiences of my life. I entered law school in 1988, right as the Supreme Court of Canada was deciding several key Charter cases. The excitement surrounding the development of Canada’s constitutional law drew me in quickly.

My excitement and curiosity about the law went beyond constitutional law. For instance, one of my favourite law school classes was an advanced insolvency seminar. In that seminar and throughout law school, I learned how foundational legal principles are to every aspect of our society and our lives. The opportunity to work in a field that had such reach was a revelation.

After clerking at the Alberta Court of Queen’s Bench and Court of Appeal, I articled at a large firm in downtown Edmonton. I learned so much and was exposed to many different types of practice but found myself gravitating towards public law files. I later had the opportunity to join Professor Dale Gibson in a boutique constitutional and human rights firm – while completely risky, I leapt at the chance, and my career took off in a different direction. I later joined Chivers Greckol & Kanee (now Chivers Carpenter), where I pivoted my practice towards labour law while continuing to practice in other areas of public law. I remained there until my appointment to the bench in 2017.

I have always wanted to care about the work I do and have been lucky to have interesting, challenging, and meaningful work throughout my career. It has been a wonderful journey. Of course, the journey continues. I am honoured to be able to continue meaningful and important work in service of the public and take seriously the responsibility and trust placed in me every day. 

WHAT EXPERIENCE IN YOUR LEGAL CAREER BEST PREPARED YOU FOR WORK ON THE BENCH?

I do not think any one experience can prepare someone to be a judge. Judges come armed with a compendium of their varied life and work experience. To be a judge, one must draw on everything; not only one’s intellect and understanding of the law, but also an understanding of people and of life. That is why it so important to have judges with different experiences on the court. It helps to reflect the diversity of the society in which we live.

I will say, though, that being a parent taught me more about humility, patience, acceptance, and flexibility than anything else I have done in my life. These lessons have all come in handy in my current role.

WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR COUNSEL WHO APPEAR BEFORE YOU?

It is important to remember why you are coming to court, and what you are asking the court to do. What relief are you asking the court to grant? Once that is clear, it is easier to work backwards to sort out what evidence is required and what legal issues need to be addressed to be successful.

WHAT DO YOU WISH THE PUBLIC KNEW ABOUT THE JUSTICE SYSTEM?

I wish the public could see what I see every day. My judicial colleagues on the trial and appeal courts are comprised of a group of dedicated, hardworking, conscientious, caring individuals who work every day to make right and just decisions.

I also wish that the public understood that courts extend well beyond the judiciary. All the staff, including clerks in the courtroom, staff at registry offices, sheriffs, court administrators, judicial assistants, orderlies…everyone understands and takes very seriously their role in the justice system and in ensuring that the public is well served. Working with such an amazing and dedicated group of people inspires me daily.